HGP Nightly News- Guyana’s media environment is again under international scrutiny, with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights raising concerns about political influence, access to public information and the treatment of independent journalists.
The concerns were outlined in the IACHR’s 2025 Annual Report on Freedom of Expression in the Hemisphere, through the Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression.
According to the report, Guyana’s media landscape remains “highly politicized,” with independent journalists reportedly facing difficulties accessing information of public interest and operating in an environment marked by political hostility.
The report cited findings from the European Union Election Observation Mission to Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections, which found that many media outlets were aligned with the government. According to the report, this resulted in “disproportionate coverage in favor of the ruling party.”
The IACHR also noted allegations that independent reporters had been verbally attacked by senior government officials and political supporters. It further referenced claims that an investigative journalist had faced threats of legal action from government ministers.
Concerns were also raised about the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority, with the report pointing to claims of “opaque decision-making processes” at the regulatory body.
The report said these issues form part of a wider concern about the relationship between the State and the media in Guyana.
Following President Irfaan Ali’s re-election, the Guyana Press Association reportedly called for an end to verbal attacks and harassment directed at reporters. The GPA also urged authorities to ensure that journalists have effective access to public information.
Reporters Without Borders also reportedly called on the government to reset its relationship with the press, reduce political interference in state media and avoid the use of judicial pressure against critical journalists.
In response to concerns about media freedom, President Ali stated during his September 7 inauguration address that his government recognised the media’s essential watchdog role. He also pledged greater transparency through new information-sharing systems in ministries and state departments.
The IACHR report also placed attention on the broader issue of freedom of information in Guyana. It noted that the Special Rapporteur participated in a November 2025 hearing on the impacts of Guyana’s Freedom of Information Act.
The report stressed that access to public information is central to democratic participation, public oversight and accountability.
It warned that restrictions on information, hostility toward journalists and political pressure on the media can weaken public confidence in institutions and undermine democratic governance.
The Commission said freedom of expression, independent journalism and transparent access to information remain essential safeguards in democratic societies.
It urged member states across the hemisphere, including Guyana, to strengthen protections for journalists and guarantee the conditions necessary for a free, independent and pluralistic media environment.
